Open the door and step inside the home with its modern farmhouse look, and one is immediately transported to the country -- without ever leaving the city limits.

Designed and built by Bill Kugler Jr., of Kugler Construction, the remodeling project began with tearing down the entire back side of the house. The 1,800 square foot addition features a gracious kitchen and dining room blended into a flexible space that is ideal for entertaining.

The project also created a new master suite and a refinished lower level.

Underfoot, golden oak floors have been stained gray to create a cohesive flow between old and original floors. The 6- by 10-foot island is topped by distressed maple butcher block stained the same color as the floors. On the opposite side of the open area, the long, broad dining room table seats 10 and balances the kitchen island's heft and presence.

Lap siding was installed in the living room, and a mantel added to the fireplace. Original stone was salvaged to reconfigure the fireplace surround.

Upstairs, the luxurious bathroom in the master suite features custom cabinetry, hexagonal porcelain tile in charcoal, a double shower with digitally controlled body sprays and the ultimate dream custom closet. A second children's bathroom was added, as well.

The lower level provides additional space for entertaining and TV viewing, as well as a pair of guest rooms.

Designers at Dwell in Coralville collaborated with the homeowner and Kugler in selecting dramatic industrial-chic chandeliers and lighting fixtures with a contemporary edge, as well as an eclectic mix of furnishings.

"Taking an existing home and giving it a whole different perspective is an awesome experience," says Kugler. The homeowner describes it as "perfection. We have no regrets … it's amazing."

Watch this discussion.Stop watching this discussion.

(0) comments

Welcome to the discussion.

Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd,
racist or sexually-oriented language.PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another
person will not be tolerated.Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone
or anything.Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism
that is degrading to another person.Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on
each comment to let us know of abusive posts.Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness
accounts, the history behind an article.